Atlas is on the move! As you can see from the list below, we’ve got a packed calendar that will take our reps across the nation, bringing our products directly to you! The busy fall/winter show season is well underway. We’re pleased to report that attendance is up, interest is great, and sales are brisk, proving the adage that people turn to traditional, time-honored pastimes in economic downturns. The enduring yet ever-evolving hobby of model railroading still packs ‘em in!

At the recent iHobby Show in Chicago, the Atlas booth featured new products and operating displays that attracted hundreds of visitors.

York TCA Meet

Amish country in the fall was the place to be for members of the Train Collectors Association, (TCA), and those who do business with them. The beautiful vistas of central Pennsylvania make a spectacular backdrop for this event, which draws thousands each October and April. Turnout exceeded expectations, with many dealers and vendors reporting they had their best “York” ever! Excellent weather enhanced the experience for those who continue to make the trek in their recreational vehicles and camp on the York Fairgrounds surrounding the meet, which fills four huge halls.

At the large Atlas booth, among the attractions were two operating layouts – a 4’ x 8’ featuring Industrial Rail™, and the impressive 9’ x 38’ modular layout built by Atlas Master Model Builder Steve Horvath. Visitors stared in awe at the lengthy consist of locomotives and freight cars running on two separate tracks, complemented by an operating Atlas turntable, new Ice House and Icing Platform, and more. New products earning high marks from attendees were the Trainman® U23B and 60’ scale passenger cars. (We’d love to show photos, but the TCA does not allow photography anywhere in the halls.)

Atlas O, LLC Vice-President Jim Weaver, Steve Horvath, and Jerry Kimble of Sales, an O expert modeler, conducted our popular Behind the Booth Seminars. Four sessions were held, three for the public and one for Atlas dealers. Topics and demonstrations included Atlas 3-Rail Operating Systems, our new Non-Derail Circuit Board, Signal System, 21st Century Track, new products and more. The last session was standing room only. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and interact with top Atlas O staff.

“The face-to-face experience is the most rewarding aspect of the York show,” Jim said. “Throughout the year, I receive numerous communications from Atlas O enthusiasts offering suggestions and ideas for the betterment of the product line. York is one of the primary venues at which I can meet the person behind the message. My thanks to all those who stopped by our display. Whether to just say hello or discuss more in-depth issues, I want our customers to know that we do listen and appreciate the personal interaction.”

In addition to the myriad of new and soon-to-arrive products that wowed visitors, the Atlas O Golden Spike Club™ podium did brisk business throughout the meet. The paint scheme of the 2009 exclusive club car – a 40’ rebuilt wood reefer decorated for Scatena Bros. Wine Company – was revealed to the great delight of current and prospective members, who scooped up membership applications and began signing up immediately. The prototypically accurate, metallic silver car with its colorful decoration will be sent to all Deluxe level members in 2009.

The announcement of two-level club membership was big news. You can read all about it here. Club shirts were also on display. The special Holiday Issue of the Atlas Quarterly All Scales Catalog debuted and flew off the tables. We were extremely appreciative of all the kudos and accolades folks were kind enough to send our way.

At present, our plan is to utilize our large behind the booth area for seminars in October and as a “lounge” for Golden Spike Club™ members each April. Members should be sure to bring their membership cards to gain entry.

iHobby

The same weekend as York, halfway across the country, a smaller contingent of Atlas staff, led by CEO Tom Haedrich, joined manufacturers, dealers and hobbyists from across the globe at the annual iHobby Show at the Rosemont Convention Center in Chicago. Atlas had a 10’ x 20’ booth with three operating displays, featuring HO and N Trainman® Train Sets and an Industrial Rail™ Train Set. Subscribers to Model Railroader’s website can view a video of the event, narrated by Associate Editor Cody Grivno.

Cody interviewed a number of manufacturers, including Atlas VP Jarrett Haedrich. New Masterpiece Cars, including the Atlas’ first O Scale car, were a booth highlight, as was the new HO C420 locomotive.

“The most gratifying feeling of the weekend came on the ‘Public Days’ – Saturday and Sunday,” said Atlas General Manager Dan Waggoner. “Electricity was in the air, reminding us of past years at the Rosemont Center. There was a continuous flow of activities and give-aways to attract show attendees. iHobby continues to be the best meeting place for new business opportunities.”

It’s the perfect time to attend a train show! Trains and holidays go together. If you’re looking for ways to get into the holiday spirit, a train event will deliver economical fun for you, your friends and family. Post-holiday shows will spark your imagination during the time of year many modelers work on their layouts. You’ll meet interesting people, see what’s new, pick up fascinating information, and find great bargains! Train related merchandise of all types will dazzle the eye. You may even find that rare item you’ve long searched for, or the perfect gift for your favorite model railroader; who just might be yourself!

See you at the show!